The Proposal & Engagement ~
One of the things that James most adored about Nadine was her interest in hunting and the outdoors. James planned this special day and asked Nadine to go duck hunting with him on November 17th,
2012 at Traxlers Hunting Preserve. Little did she know, he had the wonderful people working at Traxlers help him by banding some ducks with bands James had specially made. For those who
aren't familiar, migratory birds are banded to track their migration pattern. If you retrieve a "banded" bird while hunting it is considered a bragging right since they are not commonly
found.

Nadine and James went out for their duck hunt, landing a few mallards. Another duck went down that happened to be banded, the dog retrieved it and returned it to a staff member prompting him to
ask for Nadine. Nadine approached the staff member who then said, "Well I think this duck is for you." and handed it over to her. Nadine looked at the band which read "Will you marry me?"...
James was down on one knee with most beautiful ring Nadine could ever have imagined. Nadine who was struck speechless, managed to get out the word, "yes!".

Our venue was Shepherd's Hill Farm in Montgomery, MN. The location was exceptionally unique with a beautiful 100+ year old barn which we rented from Friday-Sunday. This allowed us to stay and enjoy the weekend with our rehearsal, ceremony and reception all held
at the same location.

Ginger P Designs created some beautiful signs including one for the Guest Book table, the Bug Station and also the end of evening Sparkler Send Off. The guest book was a photo book
created by the Bride and Groom that allowed guests to leave notes of encouragement and congratulations. Parasols and fans were available for guests to cool themselves from the late August
heat.

Imagination at Work Design Studio created our theme that was displayed throughout the events of the weekend. Our decor was a combination of "Vintage Glam meets Rustic Chic" and included
an array of pieces from crystal towers and sequin overlays to chalkboard signs and personalized mason jars for Sangria and Raspberry Lemonade.

Pink Champagne wedding cake and cupcakes in the flavors of Chocolate Covered Strawberry and Fudge Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough were made by a friend of the Bride.

We provided lawn games of Ring and Bag Toss to help our guest enjoy the spacious outdoor setting.

We chose a neutral and blush palette. Each bridesmaid wore a different color dress and each color was incorporated into the decor. Buttery Yellow, Baby Pink, Dusty Rose, Mocha,
Cappuccino, and Platinum Grey.

The flowers were the perfect combination of vintage rustic with soft, neutral colored hydrangeas, roses, and dried wheat and feathers by Greenwald's Floral. The bridal bouquet was adorned
with her Grandfathers ring who passed when she was young. This was "something old" given to her by her Dad the day before the wedding.

Our love for the outdoors and all things that describe "us" were exemplified in our wedding which is why we are so in love with our day. We have a joy for the outdoors which is why our venue
choice was a perfect fit and allowed us to spend every aspect of our day in the beautiful outdoors.

Our celebration was intimate and one that we will never forget or wish to have been any different. One of my absolute favorite elements of our wedding was the portable doors built by
our decorator so I could still have the impact of the "reveal" at our ceremony.

A basket of necessities was available for guests along with a bug station. They could then grab a pair of flip flops and dance in comfort to the amazing music provided by the
Blue Ringers. The bride and groom provided an open bar to the guests all day and into the evening consisting of a variety of beer, wine, and champagne. Transportation was provided for
guests to area hotels at the end of the evening.